Husband's reaction to flirtation is the cause of wife's distress

Tuesday

Oct 15, 2013 at 6:00 AM

DEAR ANNIE: We belong to a dinner group with six married couples. One of the couples divorced after the husband caught his wife having an affair. He no longer comes to the dinner parties, but the ex-wife still shows up and brings her (married) boyfriend. They have been together for three years.

Here's the bigger problem: She flirts with my husband at every social activity. She always gives him a hug when we run into her. He is always pleasant and chats, when I'd rather he was less chummy. On New Year's Eve, I saw my husband put his arm around her waist as she moved to the music with another man.

I assume it was the alcohol that prompted him to do this. However, it apparently fueled her fire. At one dinner party, she leaned across the table toward me and made a comment about my husband's "size." I kept my cool and replied that it wasn't her business. My husband, who was sitting right next to me, said nothing.

At the dinners, we act like friends, but I am sorely tempted to give her a piece of my mind. My husband is getting aggravated. He claims he's never cheated on me and she's never touched him inappropriately. I asked him to delete her cell number, but he has not done that. This woman is not my friend, and I think she's crossed a line. Any suggestions? — HAD ENOUGH

DEAR ENOUGH: As always in such cases, the problem is less about the woman and more about your husband's reaction. He allows her flirting and even encourages her, and then becomes annoyed with you for doubting him. It undermines your trust. There is no reason for him to have her phone number in his contact list. Ask him to delete it while you are watching. Then tell him his future responses to this woman's inappropriate remarks should make it clear he is not interested. If he refuses, the next step is counseling.

DEAR ANNIE: I have noticed that when there is a tragedy involving the death of a child, people place stuffed animals and dolls at the scene. Please, in memory of these children, tell readers to donate these items to the local police or fire departments, hospitals or a cancer center where they will bring comfort to living children. — PENNSYLVANIA

DEAR PENNSYLVANIA: That's a lovely idea, and we hope people will consider it. There is some sentiment attached to marking the spot where a tragedy occurred. We understand why loved ones might object to having these tributes removed, but in many instances, they are a safety hazard. Also, stuffed animals that have been left out in the rain and mud are no longer in any condition to donate.